Candlelight Vigil – Friday, June 24, 2016 at 8 p.m.Central Park, Winter Haven, FLWINTER HAVEN, FL – Community residents will hold a public candlelight vigil to remember and honor the 49 lives lost in Orlando, pray for the recovery of 53 wounded individuals and dozens of survivors who were inside Pulse on the night of the shooting. On Friday, June 24, 2016 at 8 p.m. the public is invited to gather for a peaceful and respectful service to remember the victims, their families, our friends and the greater Orlando community in the wake of the horrific events that took place on June 12, 2016. The vigil will take place following music, prayers, poems and words of peace, inspiration and love shared by community leaders. A moment of silence will follow the reading of each victim’s name.

Our neighboring Orlando and greater Central Florida community is the original home to many of us transplanted here in Winter Haven. The vigil will be a peaceful, respectful and public way for our community to show our support for our friends in Orlando and an outlet for our local community who may be grieving the loss of someone and to express their love and support for Orlando as well.So many in the greater Central Florida community and beyond have been affected by this tragedy. Some candles will be provided, but people are encouraged to bring candles, water and hugs for yourself and others. Flowers, signs and flags of peaceful countries, organizations or branches of service are welcome.Free parking is available in the parking garage on 2nd St. NW and Avenue A NW, in the lot across the street from the parking garage and on the street. The spirit of this event is to gather peacefully and to send a message of support. This is not a religious, political or fundraising event. If you want to directly support the families for those affected, please visit www.oneorlando.org, which is the official, local and federally-endorsed fund allocating 100% of monetary contributions to the victims’ family's cost, including, hospital, funeral, travel, lodging and more. ‪#‎oneorlando‪#‎orlandostrong‪#‎orlandolove‪#‎prayfororlandoCONTACT: Jennifer Beam D’hollander863.221.2518; jennibeam@yahoo.com